Detroit Tigers ace Justin Verlander said Sunday that he believes pitchers deserve to be considered for the MVP award. Voting ended almost two months ago, but the winner won't be announced until tomorrow afternoon.

"Pitchers are on the ballot. We are players," Verlander said during his teleconference to discuss his Cy Young award. "I've talked about it."

His manager agrees with him. Jim Leyland said last week that, if they are allowed, pitchers should win MVPs.

"He definitely deserves it," Leyland said last week. "I hope he gets it. I hope (voters) adhere to the policy which they go by. And if they do, I think he's going to get it."
Verlander finished the season with 24 wins and 250 strikeouts. He carried a 2.40 ERA, and won the AL Cy Young award in a landslide.

More SI Wire

We've Got Apps Too

Get expert analysis, unrivaled access, and the award-winning storytelling only SI can provide - from Peter King, Tom Verducci, Lee Jenkins, Seth Davis, and more - delivered straight to you, along with up-to-the-minute news and live scores.